Complex Serial Drama and Multiplatform Television

<P>This book examines the creative strategies, narrative characteristics, industrial practices and stylistic tendencies of complex serial drama. Exemplified by shows like HBO’s <I>The Sopranos</I>, AMC’s <I>Mad Men</I> and <I>Breaking Bad</I>, Showtime’s <I>Dexter</I>, and Netflix’s <I>Stranger Things</I>, complex serials are distinguished by their conceptual originality, narrative complexity, transgressive lead characters and serial allure. As a drama form that continues to expand and diversify in today’s television, HBO’s <I>Boardwalk Empire</I> and <I>Game of Thrones</I>, Netflix’s <I>Orange Is the New Black</I> and Hulu’s <I>The Handmaid’s Tale</I> provide further examples. Dunleavy investigates the strategies that underpin the innovations, influence and success of complex serial drama, giving students and scholars a nuanced understanding of this contemporary TV form.</P><P></P>